In this bulletin:
1. FOOTBALL — Spain wins FIFA World Cup
2. RUGBY — All Blacks shine at Eden Park while Fiji, Samoa and tonga suffer on the road
3. RUGBY — Fijian Drua to host historic Super Rugby Women’s Grand Final with NSW Waratahs
4. RUGBY — Scotland survive scare to beat Fiji in Nations Championship
5. RUGBY — South Africa crowned Junior World Championship 2026 winners
6. RUGBY — Nail-biting thrillers in the best round of Nations Cup rugby so far
7. RUGBY — Sāmoan duo sends strong selection message as All Blacks eyes turn to Springboks
8. RUGBY LEAGUE — Warriors stay calm under pressure as Pacific power drives gritty Dragons win
9. FOOTBALL — Solomon Islands Secure Semi Final Spot as New Zealand Finish Group Stage Perfectly
10. FOOTBALL — England finish third after ten-goal thriller
11. FOOTBALL — Fiji Finish Top as Samoa and New Caledonia Share the Points in Group A Finale
12. COMMONWEALTH GAMES — Team Cook Islands embarks on Commonwealth Games journey
13. COMMONWEALTH GAMES — Wales beat Tonga in last warm-up for Commonwealths
14. BASKETBALL — Samoa finishes fifth after beating Thailand at FIBA U18 Asia Cup
15. RUGBY — ‘I lied to our nutritionist’: Asafo Aumua sheds 10kg to get back in black
16. RUGBY — Oceania Rugby Growth Conference Returns to Fiji to Strengthen Rugby Across the Pacific
17. RUGBY — Oceania Rugby responds to PNGRU comments, confirms reinstatement pathway underway
USA – FOOTBALL: REUTERS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Spain wins FIFA World Cup
WASHINGTON, 20 JULY 2026 (REUTERS) — Spain has defeated defending champions, Argentina 1-0 to win the FIFA World Cup.
The Spaniards needed an extra-time goal by substitute Ferran Torres to edge past 10-man Argentina.
Torres broke the deadlock early in the second half of extra time, firing home on the rebound to give the European champions their second World Cup title.
Argentina was down to 10 men when Enzo Fernandez was dismissed with a second booking in second-half stoppage time.
The Argentines were toothless in attack and did not have a shot on or off target for 115 minutes.
At 65 years old, Spain’s Luis de la Fuente became the oldest World Cup-winning coach.
Argentina’s 39-year-old captain Lionel Messi became only the second player to feature in three World Cup finals and also the oldest outfield player to feature in a final…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
All Blacks shine at Eden Park while Fiji, Samoa and tonga suffer on the road
AUCKLAND, 20 JULY 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — All Blacks captain Ardie Savea jetted out to Samoa on Sunday morning, hours after leading his team to a 40-21 win over Ireland at Eden Park.
The former Rongotai College First XV captain and head boy touched down at Faleolo International Airport less than 24 hours after ensuring the All Blacks’ record at Eden Park remained intact. The All Blacks have lost at the ground since 1994.
Savea and his wife, Saskia, are in Samoa with their three children and will travel on to Fiji before returning to rejoin the All Blacks squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa.
Samoa Observer reported the family was met by Krista Liu of local car rental company Lulu, where they had arranged a vehicle for their stay. They were accompanied by Savea’s parents.
Savea is originally from Suimu village.
The tough looseman is part of the new All Blacks management and leadership team, that has now recorded a clean sheet in their first Test series of 2026.
Having created history in New Zealand because of their Pasifika heritage, head coach Dave Rennie and his team won three out of three in the first leg of the Nations Championship.
Rennie, whose mother is from the Cook Islands, is the first with Pasifika heritage to be head coach of the All Blacks.
He has Fa’alogo Tana Umaga, who is of Samoan origin and the first Pasifika to be captain of the premier New Zealand side, as one of his assistants.
Savea is part of the 12 players in the current squad who have Pasifika heritage as well.
The side have recorded wins over France, Italy and Ireland in their first three home matches.
While there were some questions around how the side performed against both France and Italy, Rennie believes Saturday night’s win over Ireland in front of more than 48,000 fans in Auckland showed promise of what the team can do moving forward.
Although it was a was a tense start to the match, with both teams having periods on attack, it was the All Blacks who were the most enterprising and they were rewarded with the first try, with lock Patrick Tuipulotu scoring near the posts after several phases.
Savea said post-match he was proud of the team’s performance against Ireland, and applauded the squad as a whole, especially those who did not get game time, for pushing the players at trainings.
“I think for us we only can control what we can control, and that’s our preparation,” he said. “We knew what was at stake and the best way to prepare for them was how we turned up each day and prepared.”
“Thought the lads prepared well, especially our guys that didn’t get a chance. They really pushed us to the limit at trainings and when you get that and then we get a performance like that tonight, just proud of everyone in the squad.”
Savea scored a try in the clash, showing his power when he picked up from the base of a scrum, following a penalty option, and bulldozed his way to the line despite tacklers hanging on to him.
Tough hooker Asafo Aumua was thrust into the game earlier than planned, when Cody Taylor had to leave the field in the first spell through injury.
Aumua said captain Savea had always reminded the players that as an All Black they have to be ready for the call all the time, which he said was a practical lesson for him on Saturday.
“It was tough,” he said at the post-match conference. “Obviously, didn’t expect to come on there early, but as All Blacks, Ardie always says we’re always ready. So, yeah, just happy to get the win.
“Focusing on the next job, obviously a lineout and just took it moment by moment.”
Aumua was one of the six try-scorers in the match, getting that shortly after he took the field.
“I looked at the big screen my eyes were open, but I could just see black. I did definitely put it down. I just didn’t know if it was on the line or not.”
He said the message from Savea was for the team to keep going, keep the ball moving and keep the opposition guessing.
“Just try and keep keep the ball moving, keep it alive, try not to give the opposition rest. It’s pretty hard fitness-wise.”
Rennie said post-match the players had put in the hard work and that is beginning to show.
It was a big jump from the close two points win over France at the One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch in the first game.
But as the first three wins wrapped up the first international calendar for the year Rennie and his team were also looking forward to the seven-match tour of South Africa, including three tests against the Springboks in South Africa and a fourth in the United States.
The reigning world champions will host matches in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Johannesburg again in Baltimore.
“They’re such a good side, Ireland, as we saw tonight,” Rennie admitted at the post-match conference after the Eden Park dust had settled.
“We asked a lot of questions of them and they defended really well for big parts. If you give them access into your end of the field, they can hurt you, but I thought the balance of the game was really good tonight.
“We looked after the ball really well. Our big men carried and went a little bit more direct and [we had] smarter kicking that created opportunities for us.”
Rennie said the team defended well, especially on their line as Ireland had them on the backfoot time and time again during the match.
Ireland had arrived in New Zealand with two good wins under their belt – beating Australia 33-31 and Japan 36-20 in their first two Nations Championship tests.
“They came here with a lot of confidence,” Rennie said.
“They have won a series here last time and they are a very experienced squad who have played a lot of footy together. We’re quite a new group. These guys played the Six Nations a few months ago.
“I would have taken a one-point win, but I thought we were pretty clinical when it mattered. A lot of the hard work that we’ve been putting in, on and off the field, we saw it on the park today.”
All Blacks attack coach and one of Rennie’s assistants, Mike Blair said he’s confident they can make history against the Springboks.
New Zealand ran in six tries off the back of some high-tempo and expansive rugby.
“Still some bits that we can do better, definitely,” he told journalists after the game.
“It sounds strange to say when you put 40 points on the board, but some really pleasing stuff, some good ball movement, some good decision making.
“Once we get into the 22, I think we’ve got some growth there. You need variety. You’ve got to have the ability to play through a team, but also to manipulate a team.”
South Africa have also won three first three matches in the series, beating Six Nations teams England, Scotland and Wales.
But Blair is confident the All Blacks can win the upcoming four-test series against the World Champions, which starts next month, if they keep growing and stay consistent.
Rennie will announce the 44-member tour squad next week, with at least 10 more players added to the current squad.
“It’s going to be a big step up for us, so we’re going to have to evolve and improve again,” Blair added.
In other Nations Championship matches at the weekend, Australia managed their first win, a 57-10 win over Italy in Perth on Saturday night.
France beat Japan 42-15, South Africa thrashed Wales 43-0 while England beat Argentina 31-24.
Meanwhile, Fiji, Samoa and Tonga all lost their games at the weekend.
Fiji led Scotland 17-7 at halftime, following tries from captain Tevita Ikanivere, Selesitino Ravutaumada and Elia Canakaivata.
But Scottish side came back hard in the second spell and scored three of their own tries.
Flying Fijians head coach Senirusi Seruvakula said it was another tough loss, following earlier defeats at the hands of Wales and England.
He said despite preparing well during the week their bench could not function as planned.
“It showed in the first half. Our bench was not good, they did not come and lift the game and that’s what the last 20 minutes showed.
“[Scotland’s] bench was good and they carried the momentum of the game until the end and they never let down their pace.”
Fiji finished the Nations Championship without a win.
Samoa and Tonga also gave away leads in their matches to lose in their World Rugby Nations Cup matches.
Manu Samoa led Romania 17-14 at halftime but ended up losing by a point in Uruguay.
The Miracle Fai’ilagi captained team scored tries through Alamanda Motuga, Abraham Papali’i, Iakopo Petelo-Mapu and Fai’ilagi himself.
Romania scored five tries, one including that from Fiji-born Iliesa Lesumaitaiti Tiqe in the first half.
Tonga also suffered the same fate against Portugal, going down 32-28 to Portugal in Canada.
The Tongans managed tries through Otunuku Jr Pauta, Taniela Filimone, Telusa Veainu and captain Solomone Kata.
Portugal scored five tries, including a double to Raffaele Storti.
Both Samoa and Tonga had won a game each and lost two on the road out of their three matches.
The second round of both the Nations Cup and the Nations Championship will be held in November.
Other Nations Cup results: Hong Kong beat Uruguay 42-40, Georgia defeated Chile 49-22, USA proved too strong for Spain winning 29-22 and Canada pipped Zimbabwe 23-19…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Fijian Drua to host historic Super Rugby Women’s Grand Final with NSW Waratahs
SUVA, 20 JULY 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU) — The Swyftx Super Rugby Women’s Grand Final will take place in Fiji for the first time when the Fijian Drua host the NSW Waratahs at Ba’s Four R Stadium coming Saturday.
After finishing the regular season atop the table, the Drua secured their historic home ground advantage with a 31-5 Semi-Final victory over the Queensland Reds earlier Saturday.
The Waratahs then won through to the decider by beating the Western Force 33-22 at HBF Park in Perth.
The Drua are chasing their third Super Rugby Women’s title, having last won the championship in 2023, while the back-to-back defending champion Waratahs are hunting their seventh title in the history of the competition.
The Grand Final victor will go on to meet the winner of New Zealand’s Super Rugby Aupiki in the second-ever Women’s Super Rugby Champions Final at Leichhardt Oval in Sydney on Saturday 1 August.
Tickets to the Super Rugby Women’s Grand Final go on sale to the general public at 11am FJT Tuesday.
All games of Swyftx Super Rugby Women are broadcast live and on demand on Stan Sport.
2026 SWYFTX SUPER RUGBY WOMEN’S GRAND FINAL
1.05pm FJT Saturday 25 July – Four R Stadium, Ba
Fijian Drua v NSW Waratahs
2026 WOMEN’S SUPER RUGBY CHAMPIONS FINAL
5.30pm AEST Saturday 1 August – Leichhardt Oval, Sydney…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: AFP PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Scotland survive scare to beat Fiji in Nations Championship
EDINBURGH, 20 JULY 2026 (AFP) — Scotland survived a scare from Fiji as Jamie Dobie came off the bench to inspire a 33-17 victory in the Nations Championship in Edinburgh on Saturday.
Gregor Townsend’s much-changed side were in danger of a shock defeat after falling 17-7 behind at the interval.
But Scotland stormed back in the second half to avoid a major embarrassment at Murrayfield, clinching a bonus-point win.
Dobie scored two tries after the break to spark Scotland’s revival, while fellow replacements Pierre Schoeman and Scott Cummings also crossed over.
The Scots’ escape act secured their second win from three matches in the new tournament.
They defeated Argentina 47-38 in their opener before losing 42-28 in South Africa last weekend.
Scotland will resume their Nations Championship campaign in November with matches against New Zealand, Australia and Japan.
“Fiji played really well, we knew they would, I felt they picked their strongest side today and it took a lot of work for us to break them down,” Townsend said.
“We changed the team. That was always the plan. We want to build more depth.
“I thought our bench did really well. Something I’ve learnt over the last 12 months, the bench can help you change momentum.”
Townsend’s decision to make 14 changes looked like coming back to bite him as Fiji dominated the first half.
Jonny Gray’s close-range try and George Horne’s conversion gave Scotland an early lead, but Fiji was unfazed.
Tevita Ikanivere touched down following a maul to cap an immediate response from Fiji, who struck again through Selestino Ravutaumada’s sensational effort.
Taking possession wide on the flank, Ravutaumada kicked ahead and recovered the ball before racing away to score.
Elia Canakaivata pounced on the loose ball after a break down and jumped over the line for another Fiji try, with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula adding the conversion.
But Scotland were revived by Townsend’s switches in the second half.
Playing with renewed intensity, they battered Fiji into submission as the visitors gradually faded.
“Fiji didn’t really break us that often, in that final quarter the guys were outstanding. We’ll take a few positives from that,” Townsend added.
“We delivered against Argentina, we created a lot against the Boks. We can go into the break now with a positive campaign behind us.”
Scotland captain Stafford McDowall saluted the fightback, saying: “I’m really proud of the boys. We got loose and let Fiji into the game but we responded and the bench had a really big impact.
“We had to stick to what we have done all year. It was a good sign to see those lads coming on in the second half. I am off to be a groomsman at a wedding now! said McDowall…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: WORLD RUGBY PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
South Africa crowned Junior World Championship 2026 winners
DUBLIN, 20 JULY 2026 (WORLD RUGBY) — South Africa showed their champion pedigree to retain their World Rugby Junior World Championship title after beating France 16-5 in an extraordinary final in Georgia on Saturday to secure back-to-back titles for the first time.
In a title decider delayed by 45 minutes due to lightning in the area around the Mikheil Meskhi Stadium, there was no shortage of drama as the Junior Springboks had three tries disallowed and France one, but Kevin Foote’s men were not to be denied as they eked out the win with a late try from Markus Muller and 11 points from the boot of fly-half Yaqeen Ahmed.
South Africa have now won 11 consecutive matches on the Junior World Championship stage and become the fourth team to go back-to-back after New Zealand (2008-11), England (2013-14) and France (2018-19). They now have three titles in the prestigious age-grade tournament, matching the tally of France, and beaten only by England (four) and New Zealand (six).
Jubilant captain Siphosethu Mnebelele beamed: “How does it feel? I don’t even know how to describe it to be honest. It’s amazing and credit to France but we just kept coming up and that’s the South African spirit. I’m really proud of the boys for that and it’s a great feeling.”
His France counterpart Lucas Andjisseramatchi said: “It’s really disappointing but congratulations to the Junior Springboks. I’m really proud of the boys this year because we’ve done a great job – winning the Six Nations and reaching the final of the Junior World Championship. We’ll come back stronger.”
Foote added: “I think we were really happy with our defence. France played with their usual flair and they were also big and physical, so we had to soak that up.
“But that’s the story of this team – they never give up and it means everything to us and our country. Rugby is in a very special place in South Africa now and we’re very lucky to represent them – to go back-to-back is very special so I’m very grateful. Georgia have been wonderful hosts and we have really enjoyed our time here.”
New Zealand finished third following a 41-26 defeat of England in a repeat of the 2017 final played at the same venue, while the two matches in Kutaisi on Saturday saw victories for Ireland and Fiji over Italy and Georgia respectively to secure ninth and 11th place.
The penultimate day on Friday proved to be an historic one as USA recorded their first-ever win in the tournament, beating Uruguay 39-15 in Kutaisi to secure 15th place. Scotland also matched their best-ever finish of fifth – secured in 2017 when Georgia last hosted the tournament – after edging out Wales 28-21 in a thrilling encounter at Avchala Stadium in Tbilisi.
Australia and Japan were the other winners on Friday, the Junior Wallabies beating Argentina 52-29 to secure seventh place and Japan coming out on top in an absorbing encounter with Spain in Kutaisi, the 34-26 victory enough to secure two wins in a single Junior World Championship for the first time.
Final
FRANCE 5-16 SOUTH AFRICA: Junior Springboks reign supreme again with title defence
South Africa’s bid to rewrite the history books reached a glorious crescendo after they edged out France in a tense final to become the first Junior Springboks side to win back-to-back Junior World Championship titles.
The Junior Springboks have now matched France’s three titles, but Cedric Laborde’s Les Bleuets deserve huge credit for a monumental effort which ultimately fell just short at Mikheil Meskhi Stadium in Tbilisi in a final delayed 45 minutes by lightning in the area.
South Africa, who have now won 11 straight Junior World Championship matches, led only 6-0 at half-time courtesy of two penalties from fly-half Yaqeen Ahmed in what was largely an attritional affair with try-scoring opportunities at a premium and defences firmly on top.
Ahmed put South Africa ahead in the ninth minute and it said much for the desire and commitment of both teams in the damp conditions that the score remained at 3-0 until the fly-half’s second penalty on the stroke of half-time
Raphael Audebert scored France’s only try in the 46th minute after Les Bleuets pounded away on South Africa’s line, gaining their reward when Baptiste Tilloles’ delightful long pass sent flanker Audebert over in the right corner.
Luka Keletaona could not convert, but France went close to a second moments later before a TMO check confirmed that Baptiste Veschambre had not grounded the ball.
The Junior Springboks secured some breathing space when centre Markus Muller burst clear with 13 minutes to go and thought they had all but wrapped up the win when Cheswill Jooste went over, only to see his try ruled out by the TMO.
Ahmed also had a try disallowed for jumping over a defender on the way to line but it didn’t matter, the fly-half slotting a penalty to allow South Africa to enjoy the final minutes and then celebrate an emotional and hard-earned title success.
Third place play-off
NEW ZEALAND 41-26 ENGLAND: McLeod’s crucial second-half double helps seal third place for New Zealand
New Zealand finished the Junior World Championship on a winning note, beating England for the sixth time in seven meetings in the third-place play-off at Mikheil Meskhi Stadium in Tbilisi.
It was the first meeting between the sides since New Zealand blew England away in the 2017 final at the same venue, the 64-17 victory securing their sixth and last title in the prestigious age-grade tournament.
Second-row Finn McLeod’s crucial second half double made certain of the victory for New Zealand, who outscored their opponents by seven tries to four.
Sam Winters charged under the posts to give England the lead but New Zealand quickly levelled through Jake Frost’s close-range score before England centre Nick Lilley and McLeod were shown yellow cards.
Frost cleverly created the space to score his second but England swiftly replied as George Marsh’s delightful offload sent Jimmy Staples over the line to make it 14-10 at half-time.
New Zealand debutant Jake Hutchings was driven over in the 45th minute before Staples and Siale Pahulu traded tries. A quick-fire double from McLeod gave New Zealand breathing space and Tyler Offiah’s late effort was mere consolation for England, who conceded again through Max Fale.
Fifth place play-off
SCOTLAND 28-21 WALES: Scotland edge out Wales despite late yellow cards
Scotland held on during a tense finale to beat familiar foes Wales and secure fifth place – emulating their highest-ever Junior World Championship finish.
They had lost 31-21 to Wales in the U20 Six Nations but outscored them in Tbilisi by four tries to three in a nail-biting encounter which saw them pushed all the way. Scotland had Matthew Fick and Ewan Caven sin-binned late on but inspired their talismanic captain and hooker Joe Roberts, the 13 men held on for victory.
Wales began brightly and second-row Will Evans squeezed over the line before prop Jac Pritchard barrelled over to give his side a 14-0 lead. However, Scotland steadied themselves and hit back to tie the scores, prop Ollie Blyth-Lafferty touching down from point-blank range before Alex Bryden’s perfect flat pass sent centre partner Henry Kesteron charging over the line.
After the break, Roberts went over to claim his sixth try of the tournament after Wales second-row Evans was shown a yellow card but full-back Lewis Edwards then raced through the Scotland defence for a converted try.
That levelled matters at 21-21 and, after Wales lost Tom Bowen to a yellow card, Scotland regained the lead in the 64th minute when Dan Kelly dived over in the right corner. Despite losing Fick and Caven to yellow cards, they held firm for the win, thanks in part to Wales losing the ball over the line on two occasions.
Seventh place play-off
ARGENTINA 29-52 AUSTRALIA: Junior Wallabies edge entertaining encounter to seal seventh place
Australia hooker John Greenfell scored twice on his first start of the tournament to help the Junior Wallabies seal victory in the seventh-place play-off at Avchala Stadium in Tbilisi on Friday.
His first-half double was the highlight of a dominant opening 40 minutes that saw Australia score five tries and establish a commanding 33-10 lead. From there they did not look back and, having shared three wins apiece in their previous six Junior World Championship meetings, Australia beat Los Pumitas for the fourth time.
Greenfell opened the scoring inside the second minute from Sam Blank’s short pass but Los Pumitas hit back through free-scoring full-back Simon Pfister.
He scored his eighth try of the tournament after taking a superb pass from fly-half Federico Serpa Laporte, but Greenfell crashed over again from a lineout and Zach Fittler scored Australia’s third before Luca Cleverley and the impressive Tom Farr-Jones got in on the act before half-time.
Toby Brial, Farr-Jones and Kingbenjamin Swerling-Finaipepe added further tries for the Junior Wallabies with second-half scores from Bautista Salinas Mallea, Nicolás Cambiasso and Tomás Canedo for Argentina.
Ninth place play-off
ITALY 26-34 IRELAND: Ireland show their class to seal ninth place
Ireland secured ninth place after beating Italy in an enthralling encounter in Kutaisi for a third win against the Azzurrini in their last four Junior World Championship meetings.
A highly-entertaining first half ended 22-14 to Ireland and they were ultimately worthy victors after outscoring Italy by five tries to four.
Italy beat Ireland in last year’s tournament on home soil en route to finishing seventh – their best-ever Junior World Championship placing. But Ireland led through captain Josh Neill’s close-range try before Italy replied when second-row Enoch Opoku Gyamfi finished off a superb break from Pietro Celi for his third try of the tournament.
Although hooker Duinn Maguire barged over for Ireland’s second try, Italy hit back again immediately when prop Erik Meroi stole his way through to score.
Winger Charlie Molony scored a third for Ireland but Italy absorbed plenty of pressure during the second half, especially after losing Jaheim Wilson to a yellow card – and they scored when Luca De Novellis dived over in the left corner. Mattia Andretti’s third conversion cut Ireland’s lead to a point but Charlie O’Shea then touched down Molony’s teasing grubber kick.
Opoku Gyamfi thought he had scored his second late on but it was disallowed for a forward pass and Ireland went over again through Sean David Walsh before Nikolaj Varotto’s last-minute consolation.
11th place play-off
GEORGIA 10-30 FIJI: Fiji seal 11th place after downing hosts Georgia
Fiji made it back-to-back wins on the Junior World Championship stage thanks to a powerful first-half display against tournament hosts Georgia at the AIA Arena in Kutaisi.
The Junior Lelos had won their previous two Junior World Championship meetings with Fiji – in 2019 and 2024 – but Andrew Tui Osborne’s side deservedly took the spoils this time around.
Fiji enjoyed a dream start when scrum-half Isikeli Bari Ratu’s exquisite long pass sent Sevuloni Rakoto Sauleirogo Satala diving over in the right corner. They scored again when Marika Koroi went over from point-blank range before Bari Ratu’s perfectly-weighted grubber kick was grounded by captain Isoa Koroinawai.
That made it 17-0 at the break and despite Fiji receiving three yellow cards in the second half – for Faimalaga Tuvalu, Francis Peters and Maleli Nauvasi – there would be no way back for Georgia. Mikheili Shioshvili and Leonide Saldadze did give the home fans something to shout about, but Savenaca Durusolo Vagadai had the final say with Fiji’s fourth try late on.
13th place play-off
JAPAN 34-26 SPAIN: Japan secure back-to-back wins for first time
Japan beat Spain in the 13th place play-off after edging an ill-disciplined affair which saw seven players shown yellow cards at AIA Arena in Kutaisi. Five of those went to Los Leones U20 players and Japan capitalised to win two matches in a single Junior World Championship for the first time.
Both teams had enjoyed record wins in their 13th place semi-finals, with Japan beating USA 71-21 and Spain inflicting a 57-6 defeat on Uruguay. These results saw Japan end a run of 19 consecutive defeats at the Junior World Championship and Los Leones U20 snap a run of eight straight losses respectively.
Spain was forced into a reshuffle in the centres with Marcos López withdrawn from the side due to a ruptured ACL, but they scored an early opener through captain Marcal Carreras before Japan hit back to lead with tries from Isa Fukada and Rio Iwakura.
Spain had Ivan Farace and Telmo Fisher Obieta sent to the sin-bin but scored through Carreras again to lead 18-12 at the break.
Japan responded in the second half with tries by Shinnosuke Uchida, Yuta Otabe and Masato Hyakutake as three more second-half yellow cards proved costly for Spain, who could only muster a try through Farace.
15th place play-off
USA 39-15 URUGUAY: Perez hits treble for Uruguay before USA hit back to seal historic win
USA recovered from a sluggish start to overpower Uruguay and claim their first-ever Junior World Championship victory in the 15th place play-off in Kutaisi on Friday.
Uruguay had failed to score a try in their three previous matches in Georgia but found themselves 15-0 ahead after 33 minutes at AIA Arena following a remarkable hat-trick of close-range scores from hooker Sebastián Perez.
However, if Los Teritos were dreaming of a first-ever win in this tournament, the response was impressive from the USA as they scored on the stroke of half-time through hooker Aidan Stewart’s try, the first seven of 39 unanswered points his side would score.
The USA then showed their class in the second half to secure that elusive first Junior World Championship win at the 15th attempt, number eight Papaseea Matelau and flanker Harrison Cluff tries putting Johannes Gericke’s men in control before Oliver Kirk and Liam Hall scored late on…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: WORLD RUGBY PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Nail-biting thrillers in the best round of Nations Cup rugby so far
DUBLIN, 20 JULY 2026 (WORLD RUGBY) — The first phase of the World Rugby Nations Cup 2026 has drawn to a close, and round three proved to be the most mesmerising yet.
Aside from one comfortable victory, every match was a fiercely contested, end-to-end thriller packed with late drama, as Romania, Hong Kong China and Canada all secured their first victories of the campaign, with the first two doing so in the final minute. The USA and Portugal also held out for knife-edge victories, while Georgia saw off Chile with a commanding performance.
In Pool A, the USA sit top with three wins from three, Chile is second with two wins, and the rest all have seven points with a win each, aside from Uruguay who have a draw and two defeats.
In Pool B, Georgia enjoyed a perfect start with three wins to sit top with Portugal second on 12 points following impressive back-to-back victories. Romania and Spain both have nine points and a win each with Hong Kong China fifth and Zimbabwe the only side to have lost all three matches in sixth.
SAMOA 37-38 ROMANIA: Incredible second-half comeback as Romania snatch it at the death
The third round began in misty conditions in Montevideo as Samoa took on Romania in a game for the ages.
It was a great start for Samoa, who led through the boot of AJ Alatimu before a driving maul try from Alamanda Motuga. Romania needed to test Samoa’s defence, and when they got their chance, they took it brilliantly as the ball was spread to Nicholas Onutu, who went over for the try.
From then on, it was constant back and forth between the two sides. Onutu, with the interception, fed Iliesa Lesumaitaiti Tiqe, who sped through to the try-line. Abraham Papali’i then bulldozed over on the stroke of half-time, and the Samoans led 17-14 at the break.
Impact replacement Iakopo Petelo-Mapu and captain Miracle Faiilagi’s tries looked like they were going to blow Romania away through their power and precision.
What followed, though, was an incredible comeback that no one expected. Trailing 31-14, Andrei Savin gave the Oaks a huge boost with a try from a maul. As Romania built the pressure, they were fully back in it as the ball was spread to Marius Simionescu to bring them back to within a score.
Danny Toala kept his composure to slot a penalty with less than 10 minutes remaining, just to keep Romania at bay until the end. Gabriel Rupanu’s missed penalty looked like it was going to ensure it was Samoa’s day.
However, the Oaks’ resilience knew no bounds, and they instantly responded with captain Cristi Boboc spotting the gap and diving over.
The drama did not end there as 14-man Samoa, with a minute to play, were awarded a penalty in front of the posts for not releasing. As the penalty was given, the men in blue let out an almighty roar as if the full-time whistle had already sounded, and with Toala again knocking it over, Samoa just needed to hold on for one more minute.
In another twist, Samoa gave away a penalty, and Romania had a lineout inside the Samoan 22 to win the match. The ball was spread left, and Samoa held firm, but as the Oaks built the phases, super-sub Alexandru Savin picked the ball up and drove over to clinch it for Romania and seal a remarkable comeback.
Speaking after the game, Samoa captain Miracle Faiilagi could barely find the words to sum up what had happened, attributing the loss to their “discipline, which let us down.”
An equally stunned but delighted Jacob Immelman said the win had “saved the tour” as Romania claimed their first victory of the tournament.
URUGUAY 40-42 HONG KONG CHINA: Hong Kong China edge Uruguay with last-gasp penalty
Both sides entered this final match of the Americas leg of the Nations Cup seeking their first win, and what unfolded was a fantastic spectacle.
From the outset, it was action-packed. Twenty-five minutes in, a Joaquin Myszka try, followed by penalties from Paul Altier and a try from Alexander Post, gave Hong Kong China a slender lead.
Los Teros held a comfortable 26-13 lead at half-time, with Joaquin Myszka scoring back-to-back hat-tricks. The Uruguayan hooker was having a great day at the back of the driving maul, which Hong Kong China had no answer for.
A score from Manuel Diana followed Myszka’s third try, and the Uruguay attack found countless ways to break through the Hong Kong China defensive line. Juan Manuel Alonso’s brilliant turn of pace and finish in the corner gave Hong Kong China a mountain to climb.
Spurred on by an audacious grubber and finish from Matthew Worley, Hong Kong China unlocked the potential they had been waiting to unleash all tournament. A penalty try, and scores from Marcus Rampage and Brendon Nell put Hong Kong China in dreamland and left Uruguay completely stunned. Twenty-eight unanswered points later, and with 12 minutes remaining, Hong Kong China were six points ahead, and a famous win was on the cards.
A nail-biting final 10 minutes looked as though Uruguay would snatch it at the death as Francisco Gonzalez Capdevila’s brave finish in the corner put Los Teros just one point behind. From the touchline, Jean Cotarmanac’h nailed the conversion, and after a narrow loss and a draw, it looked like Uruguay would finally be rewarded with a win.
Clearly, however, Montevideo was not finished providing drama. From the restart, Altier was taken out in the air by Alfonso Vidal, and the penalty was duly awarded. The look on Mateo Perillo’s face said it all, as the Uruguayans could not believe there was one more twist in the tale.
With nerves of steel and an already perfect day from the boot, Altier stepped up from distance and landed the penalty that sealed an historic victory, sparking jubilant scenes for Hong Kong China.
Captain Felipe Aliaga barely had any words post-match as Uruguay had, for the third time, narrowly missed out on a first Nations Cup win.
His Hong Kong China counterpart Joshua Hrstich said it was a win that had “shown the world we’re a team to be reckoned with when we turn up, and there’s no question of our place in this Nations Cup.”
CHILE 22-49 GEORGIA: Los Cóndores blown away by Georgia, who complete a perfect first phase
After two nail-biting thrillers, it was the turn of Chile and Georgia, two of the three teams to have won every match so far, to face off in Santiago.
A hectic first half ensued as Batchuki Tchumbadze opened the scoring, taking advantage of Chile’s early poor discipline, which saw them reduced to 14 men after just three minutes.
Two tries followed from Vakhtang Jintcharadze and Luka Ivanishvili, and with another yellow card for Chile, the Lelos built a commanding lead. Chile fought back with a try in the corner from Manuel Bustamante.
Georgia never panicked, though, and despite Tornike Kakhoidze being shown a yellow card, Beka Shvangiradze powered over for Georgia’s bonus-point try just three minutes later.
A Santiago Videla try gave Chile some momentum going into the break, but as the two teams emerged for the second half, there was only one team in cruise control.
The Lelos were fantastic: physically dominant, disciplined and ultimately giving Chile no breathing space. Their efforts were rewarded with tries from Tornike Kakhoidze, Ioane Iashagashvili and Vakhtang Jintcharadze, cementing a comfortable seven-try victory and a third win in three matches.
In the dying seconds, Chile managed to grab a try through Matias Dittus, but it was merely a consolation as it brought an end to a one-sided second half and an emphatic Georgia victory.
Speaking after the match, Chile captain Martin Sigren said he “was disappointed we have nothing to show for it, and it’s always the aim to win in front of our own fans.”
As debutant Giorgi Pertaia celebrated afterwards with a backflip, Georgia finished the first phase as the side to beat, bouncing back brilliantly from their Rugby Europe Men’s Championship 2026 final defeat earlier in the year.
TONGA 28-32 PORTUGAL: Card-fest and end-to-end thriller as Portugal hold out for narrow win
After two tightly contested encounters earlier in the day, Tonga and Portugal produced another thrilling finish in Winnipeg, with Portugal securing a dramatic win to back up their victory over hosts Canada last weekend.
The opening exchanges were dominated by the boot, as Patrick Pellegrini kicked Tonga into an early six-point lead before Otunuku Jr Pauta crossed for the first try of the afternoon. Portugal responded immediately through Raffaele Storti, and despite Taniela Filimone restoring Tonga’s advantage, Os Lobos struck twice through Manuel Cardoso Pinto and Nuno Mascarenhas to take a 19-16 lead into half-time.
Portugal extended their advantage early in the second half when Storti grabbed his second try, but the momentum threatened to shift dramatically in the 55th minute when captain José Madeira was shown a yellow card for head contact, leaving Os Lobos to navigate a crucial period with 14 men against a physically dominant Tongan pack.
Tonga capitalised through the individual genius of Telusa Veainu before Pellegrini’s conversion levelled the scores. Samuel Marques edged Portugal back in front with a penalty, and minutes later Andre Cunha’s try looked to have given Os Lobos breathing room, but Solomone Kata sprinted over in the corner almost immediately to set up a tense finale.
Despite being severely tested during Madeira’s absence and facing relentless Tongan pressure in the closing stages, Portugal defended superbly to hold on for a hard-fought victory, making it two wins from three in the Nations Cup.
USA 29-22 SPAIN: The Eagles make it three from three at home
USA and Spain produced another thrilling finish in Raleigh with the Eagles securing a dramatic victory to complete a perfect three-from-three campaign on home soil.
The two sides met in North Carolina for the second successive year after Spain claimed their first-ever victory over the Eagles in Charlotte in 2024, but this time it was the state capital of Raleigh playing host. The opening exchanges were fiercely contested before Dominic Besag’s break put the USA in a dangerous position. The ball eventually found Mitch Wilson, who crossed for the opening try of the afternoon.
Spain responded immediately through Estanislao Bay, whose perfectly weighted pass released Martiniano Cian. The centre produced a superb break before returning the ball for Bay to finish a brilliant move. It was another outstanding moment from the Los Leones scrum-half, who has been one of the standout performers of the tournament.
Paddy Ryan restored the Eagles’ advantage from a scrum deep inside the Spanish 22. The momentum shifted in the 28th minute when Perry Mayo was shown a yellow card for accidentally taking out Jaime Manteca in the air, leaving the hosts to defend with 14 men. Spain piled on the pressure and eventually broke through when Manteca collected on the blindside, stepped inside and crossed after several minutes camped inside the USA 22.
Despite being a man down, the USA showed tremendous resilience and repeatedly forced Spain into conceding penalties. From a lineout, they patiently built the phases before Julian Roberts finished in the corner to hand the hosts a 19-12 lead at half-time.
Spain struck first after the restart when a brilliant interception from Bay released Martiniano Cian to level the scores. Gonzalo López then nudged Los Leones in front with a superb penalty in what had become a tense and attritional second half. López had the chance to extend the lead moments later from almost exactly the same position but pushed his effort wide.
The USA finally pulled back ahead through Perry Mayo, who atoned for his earlier sin-bin with a brilliant individual try. The winger burst through the defensive line, bounced off would-be tacklers and powered over to restore the Eagles’ advantage.
The USA enjoyed the better possession throughout the closing stages and were rewarded with a penalty eight minutes from time, stretching their lead and delighting the Raleigh crowd. Spain searched desperately for a route back into the contest, but when an attacking maul was held up and a scrum awarded to the hosts in the closing moments, the Eagles closed the game out to secure a hard-fought victory.
Spain captain Alvaro Garcia Albo said his side “are happy with the performances but there’s still much improvement and we have to keep working.”
USA captain Jason Damm, whose leadership has been exemplary these last three matches, attributed this early success for his side to “the bench whose impact has been unreal and who throw their bodies around, which generates these wins.”
CANADA 23-19 ZIMBABWE: Peter Nelson’s boot the difference as Canada avoid a late Zimbabwe surge to get their first win
The two sides met for the first time, with both looking to avoid ending the first half of their Nations Cup campaign without a victory. Unwavering defence defined the opening exchanges as neither side could find an early breakthrough. By the first cooling break after 20 minutes, the score remained 0-0, a stark contrast to the five high-scoring encounters that had preceded it.
The deadlock was eventually broken by the boot of Peter Nelson, whose two penalties put Canada six points in front. Moments later, play was brought to a halt due to a lightning delay, interrupting the hosts’ growing momentum.
When play resumed, Canada piled the pressure on the Zimbabwe defence and earned another penalty inside the 22. With most expecting Nelson to take the straightforward three points, the fly-half instead took a quick tap before producing a perfectly weighted cross-field kick that landed in the hands of Mason Flesch, who finished in the corner. Nelson added the conversion to cap a bold piece of attacking play, sending Canada into half-time with a commanding 13-0 advantage.
The second half began in similarly attritional fashion, with points once again proving difficult to come by. Twelve minutes after the restart, Nelson’s boot continued to make the difference as he landed a superb penalty from inside his own half to extend Canada’s advantage.
Zimbabwe knew they had to get themselves on the scoreboard and eventually found a breakthrough with their powerful driving maul. Liam Larkan peeled away from the back to crash over, cutting the deficit and giving the Sables renewed belief.
The momentum, however, proved short-lived. Straight from the restart, Canada capitalised on a loose ball inside their opponent’s 22, with Calixto Martinez reacting quickest to dive over for a crucial try just two minutes after Zimbabwe had scored.
Zimbabwe refused to go away and continued to build momentum as the half wore on. Canada was forced into a prolonged defensive effort before Cleopas Kundiona eventually forced his way over to keep the contest alive.
A late Zimbabwean surge piled further pressure on the Canadian defence, with their replacement winger Dion Khumalo crossing in the corner to set up one final opportunity. The Sables launched one last attack from deep inside their own half, but a crucial handling error brought the game to an end, allowing Canada to hold on for a hard-fought victory and finish this set of Nations Cup fixtures on a winning note.
Sables’ captain Tino Mavesere, despite being gutted with their third loss, said “there are a lot of positives to take, and unfortunately today we just couldn’t quite catch up.”
Canada captain Andrew Quattrin said afterwards: “We wrote the wrongs of seven days ago, and we did a phenomenal job tonight, especially with our kick-chase.” …. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: PMN PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Sāmoan duo sends strong selection message as All Blacks eyes turn to Springboks
AUCKLAND, 20 JULY 2026 (PMN) — Sa’u Patrick Tuipulotu and Asafo Aumua have strengthened their case for bigger roles in the All Blacks after standout performances in Saturday night’s 40-21 win over Ireland in the Nations Championship at a packed Eden Park in Auckland.
The two Sāmoan forwards were among the All Blacks’ best, delivering the physical edge and impact head coach Dave Rennie wants as his side turns their attention to next month’s Rugby Championship and a daunting challenge against world champions South Africa.
Rennie was also pleased with the progress his side made across the three-Test series, saying the All Blacks are continuing to build the style of rugby they want to play.
While there is still work to do before facing the Springboks, Rennie said the team had taken another step forward with a performance that showed greater confidence and continuity.
That progress was reflected in the performances of Tuipulotu and Aumua, who both made the most of their opportunities.
Tuipulotu marked his return to the starting side with a commanding display, scoring the All Blacks’ opening try and making his presence felt on both sides of the ground.
Rennie said the experienced lock had justified the decision to give him an extra week before bringing the 1.98-metre Blues’ captain back into the team.
“I thought Patrick was excellent,” Rennie told journalists after the match. “He hasn’t had a lot of footy in him. I’m really rapt that we made a call last week not to play him, just to give him one more week.
“His ability to carry, and get through, two shoulders through, and he’s really physical defensively, he gives our scrum a real edge too.”
Tuipulotu later reflected on his return in a post on Instagram, admitting the only disappointment was being replaced earlier than he would have liked.
“Probably didn’t want to get taken off… wasn’t keen on that but happy with the performance I had. Stoked we got the win… all week was probably one of the harder weeks of prep I’ve had so pretty proud of that and pretty proud of the boys’ effort.
“First try, even at home as well against Ireland, I’d never get that animated so I was pretty happy.”
Tuipulotu’s return helped anchor an All Blacks pack that laid the platform for victory and gave selectors another reminder of his value heading into a tougher stretch of the international season.
Aumua also made the most of his chance after replacing Codie Taylor earlier than expected when the veteran hooker left the field with a strained calf.
The Hurricanes hooker made an immediate impact, crashing over for a try before continuing to trouble the Irish defence with his powerful running.
After the match, Aumua said the All Blacks were beginning to find the style of rugby they want to play.
“It’s more just trying to keep everyone moving. Trying to bring that flair back into the black jersey… I feel like we’re slowly making some good margins on this,” Asafo told journalists.
He said captain Ardie Savea’s message to the team had been clear. “Keep it alive, try not to give opposition a rest.”
Rennie was equally pleased with Aumua’s contribution.
“I thought Asafo was excellent, he’s such an athlete and such a beast …I thought Asafo had a big impact on the game.”
The performances of Tuipulotu and Aumua were another reminder of the influence Pacific players continue to have at the highest level of the game.
With the Ireland series complete, attention now turns to South Africa where the All Blacks will need their forwards at their best.
On Saturday night’s evidence Tuipulotu and Aumua have given the selectors every reason to keep backing them.
In other Nations Championship results, the Springboks claimed a dominant 43-0 victory over Wales, Wallabies defeated Italy 57-10 in Perth, France proved too strong for Japan 42-15, Scotland beat Fiji 33-17, and England survived a frantic finish to edge Argentina 31-24 in Santiago del Estero…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: PMN PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Warriors stay calm under pressure as Pacific power drives gritty Dragons win
WELLINGTON, 20 JULY 2026 (PMN) — The Warriors found a way to win when the pressure was at its highest, relying on their Pasifika strength and composure to grind out a 20-12 victory over the St George Illawarra Dragons in Auckland on Saturday.
The match ended in controversy with the Dragons frustrated by late calls that went against them, but Warriors coach Andrew Webster acknowledged the emotion on the other side while praising his players for staying composed.
“I see their frustration. If I’m sitting in their chair, I’m frustrated too,” Webster told reporters after the match.
“But I’m also incredibly proud of our boys. When the game was there to be won, and when it got frantic, we stayed calm, we executed our kicks, and we did what we had to do to protect that lead at home.”
That ability to stay composed was built on the work of the Warriors’ backline. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Taine Tuaupiki provided the metres and energy needed to keep Auckland moving forward.
Watene-Zelezniak was outstanding on his return to the wing, running for 229 metres and scoring the try that helped swing momentum back the Warriors’ way early in the second half.
Tuaupiki was also heavily involved. He produced 215 metres from fullback as he repeatedly challenged the Dragons’ defence and helped the Warriors escape pressure.
While the Warriors crossed for three tries through Adam Pompey, Alofiana Khan-Pereira and Watene-Zelezniak, it was Toa Sāmoa playmaker Chanel Harris-Tavita who provided the composure with the boot.
Harris-Tavita was perfect from the kicking tee, landing three penalty goals in the 20th, 70th and 78th minutes, along with a conversion of Watene-Zelezniak’s try.
Those points proved crucial as the Dragons pushed late but the Warriors held firm to secure another important win in their push towards the finals.
For a side chasing a top-two finish, these are the victories that matter – the ones where everything does not go to plan but the team finds a way.
And once again, the influence of the Warriors’ Pacific players was central to getting the job done.
The Warriors will face the Bulldogs next weekend in Sydney.
The Warriors women also bounced back in style at Go Media Stadium, returning to the winner’s circle with a dominant 42-4 win over the North Queensland Cowboys.
Pacific talent was at the heart of the victory, with Lavinia Tauhalaliku and Olympic rugby sevens star Stacey Waaka combining for six tries as the left edge caused constant problems for the Cowboys.
Tauhalaliku was the standout, scoring four tries, breaking seven tackles and running for 187 metres in a powerful display. Forward Ivana Lauitiiti produced one of the moments of the match with a strong individual try just before half-time.
The result highlighted the growing impact of Pacific players across the Warriors men and women’s sides.
From the men’s side grinding out a tough win over the Dragons to the women’s attacking display against the Cowboys, Pacific talent was again at the centre of a successful weekend for the Warriors…. PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Solomon Islands Secure Semi Final Spot as New Zealand Finish Group Stage Perfectly
PORT MORESBY, 20 JULY 2026 (OFC) — Solomon Islands booked their place in the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship semi-finals with a deserved 3-1 victory over Tahiti, setting up a last-four meeting with Fiji.
With a semi-final berth on the line, both sides knew victory would keep their title hopes alive. Solomon Islands adopted an aggressive defensive approach from the outset, pressing high up the pitch and looking to exploit the pace of Greggy Gau and George Lea’i on the counterattack.
Their persistence paid off in the 26th minute. George Lea’i latched onto a perfectly weighted pass from Walcott Kona before bursting beyond Tahiti defender Steevy Peckett. The forward then unleashed a powerful right-footed strike into the top-left corner to give Solomon Islands a deserved lead heading into the break.
The advantage doubled just three minutes into the second half when Gau raced beyond the Tahiti defence before slipping the ball into the path of Jayer Makarani, who calmly drilled a low finish into the near post from outside the area.
Tahiti responded immediately through Esdras Jamet in the 53rd minute, who turned home Akahi Paoa’s low corner to reduce the deficit and ignite hopes of a comeback.
Despite the pressure, Solomon Islands remained composed, controlling possession and frustrating Tahiti’s patient build-up play. A late free kick from Hyrum Jones was comfortably gathered by goalkeeper Eddie Aefi before the decisive moment arrived in the closing stages.
A long clearance from Soka released Gau from halfway, and the speedy forward surged clear of the defence before coolly slotting home to seal an impressive 3-1 victory.
Tahiti: 1 (Esdras JAMET 53′)
Solomon Islands: 3 (George LE’AI 26′, Jayer MAKARANI 48′, Greggy GAU 90+6′)
HT: 0-1
New Zealand completed a perfect group stage campaign with a dominant 7-0 victory over Vanuatu to finish top of Group B at the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship.
Having already secured their place in the semi-finals, New Zealand entered the match looking to maintain their unbeaten record, while Vanuatu were determined to end their campaign on a positive note.
The Kiwis wasted little time asserting their dominance. Zack Cashmore opened the scoring in the fifth minute, turning home Reuben Lee Sang’s inviting cross with a first-time finish. Just five minutes later, Cashmore doubled the advantage with another composed one touch finish after a perfectly weighted pass through the middle.
The striker completed a remarkable hat trick inside 15 minutes, racing onto another through ball before calmly finishing past the advancing goalkeeper. Cashmore wasn’t done yet, adding his fourth goal of the afternoon in the 31st minute to cap an outstanding first half performance.
New Zealand extended their lead before the break when Ethan Amyes found the back of the net in the 39th minute, sending the defending champions into half-time with a commanding 5-0 advantage.
Vanuatu showed determination after the restart and created their best opportunity from a set piece, but Rohan Masauvakalo headed over the crossbar. New Zealand remained in complete control, with second-half captain Ben Trenberth adding a sixth goal before the 70th minute, while Davi Valle Dos Santos rounded off the scoring two minutes later to complete an emphatic victory.
New Zealand: 7 (Zack CASHMORE 5′, 10′, 15′, 31′, Ethan AMYES 39′, Ben TRENBERTH 70′, Davi VALLE DOS SANTOS 72′)
Vanuatu: 0
HT: 5-0…. PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
England finish third after ten-goal Thriller
MIAMI, 20 JULY 2026 (OFC) — Bukayo Saka became the first English player to score a FIFA World Cup hat-trick in a knockout match since the legendary Sir Geoff Hurst in the 1966 Final as England secured a bonkers 6-4 win over France in the Bronze Medal match played in Miami, Florida.
France 4 England 6
It was the match that no-one wanted to play which resulted in the match that no-one wanted to miss as England and France put on a contest for the ages in front of an appreciate crowd in Miami, the Three Lions shaking off the disappointment of semi-final defeat to record their highest placing at a FIFA World Cup since their one and only success sixty years ago.
Few would have guessed the outcome as England came flying out of the blocks scoring inside two minutes as Declan Rice stroked home a delightful finish. This was England’s second fastest World Cup goal of all time. And it got even better sixteen minutes later as Ezri Konsa met a corner at the near post with a glancing header that ghosted into the net.
By the time Saka combined with Marucs Rashford to make it 3-0 in the 37th minute, the English fans were in dreamland. If that wasn’t enough, Saka struck again in first-half stoppage time as Thomas Tuchel’s men went into the break with a quite remarkable 4-0 advantage.
France were shellshocked but found their groove in the second half. Kylian Mbappé rapped home a goal almost straight after the restart, before Bradley Barcola coolly reduced the arrears further. By the time Mbappé bagged his second, and tenth of the tournament to retake the lead in the Golden Boot race and at the top of the all-time FIFA World Cup scorers’ chart, a sensational recovery appeared on the cards.
Djed Spence made sure that was unlikely to happen, upended in the area, allowing Saka to complete his treble from the penalty spot, only for Ousmane Dembélé to curl in a tremendous fourth for France. Fittingly, England sealed the bronze medal deep into stoppage time as the ultra-impressive Jude Bellingham, introduced as a late substitute, tip-toed through the tiring French defence to clatter home England’s sixth.
RESULT
France 4 (Kylian MBAPPÉ 48’, 66’, Bradley BARCOLA 54’, Ousmane DEMBÉLÉ 90+6’) England 6 (Declan RICE 2’, Ezri KONSA 18’, Bukayo SAKA 37’, 45+1’, 87’ (p), Jude BELLINGHAM 90+8’)…. PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Fiji Finish Top as Samoa and New Caledonia Share the Points in Group A Finale
PORT MORESBY, 20 JULY 2026 (OFC) — Fiji sealed top spot in Group A and booked their place in the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship semi-finals with a commanding 3-0 victory over Papua New Guinea in a crucial group-stage encounter.
With both sides entering the match unbeaten, the winner would secure first place in the group and strengthen their hopes of making history.
Fiji made the perfect start, taking the lead after just six minutes through Zaman Shah. The winger produced a moment of brilliance, curling a corner kick directly into the net to stun the home crowd.
Papua New Guinea’s task became even more difficult when Jau Eron was shown a red card following a heavy challenge, leaving the hosts to play the remainder of the match with ten men.
Fiji quickly capitalised on their numerical advantage. Jerry Levea doubled the lead in the 19th minute with a powerful long-range effort, his strike carrying all the way into the back of the net. Just before half-time, Isoa Baselala added a third after creating space for himself, surging beyond the PNG defence before firing home to give Fiji a commanding 3-0 advantage at the break.
Despite the setback, Papua New Guinea refused to give in. Iga Steven injected urgency into the attack after the restart, bursting into the penalty area before delivering a dangerous cross, while captain Matthew Sopo twice threatened to reduce the deficit, forcing one save before later firing narrowly over the crossbar.
Backed by a passionate home crowd, Papua New Guinea continued to push until the final whistle, but Fiji’s defence held firm to secure an impressive victory. Both teams book their place in the semi-finals and Fiji complete the group stages as Group A winners.
Papua New Guinea: 0
Fiji: 3 (Zaman SHAH 6′, Jerry LEVEA 19′, Isoa BASELALA 43′)
HT: 0-3
Samoa and New Caledonia shared the points in a 1-1 draw in the final Group A fixture of the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship, with both sides searching for their first win of the tournament.
New Caledonia created the better early chances, with Lyssandro Martinez heading narrowly over the crossbar after a dangerous delivery into the penalty area.
Samoa struck first in the 30th minute through Te Koha Gabriel Schick. A perfectly weighted through ball from midfield sent the forward racing into the box. His initial effort was parried by goalkeeper Jaerson Pian, but Schick reacted quickest to head the rebound into the net and give Samoa a 1-0 lead.
Moments later, Samoa’s task became significantly harder after they were reduced to ten players following a red card, forcing them to defend their advantage for more than half the match.
New Caledonia dominated possession after the break and continued to press for an equaliser. Martinez went close again with a looping effort before Kevin Hoang tested Samoan goalkeeper Moemanatu after good work from Matahi Wimian.
The pressure finally paid off in the 74th minute when New Caledonia were awarded a penalty after Bevan Jr Kapisi brought down Maelann Pearou in the box. Centre-back Steevy Andrew confidently converted from the spot, blasting his effort down the middle to earn New Caledonia a share of the spoils.
Samoa: 1 (Te Koha Gabriel SCHICK 30′)
New Caledonia: 1 (Steevy ANDREW 74′ pen)
HT: 1-0…. PACNEWS
COOKS – COMMONWEALTH GAMES: COOK ISLANDS NEWS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Team Cook Islands embarks on Commonwealth Games journey
RAROTONGA, 20 JULY 2026 (COOK ISLANDS NEWS) — Team Cook Islands chef de mission Mark Short says the team is well-prepared, motivated and looking forward to competing and representing their country with pride at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August.
Team Cook Islands left Rarotonga on Thursday night led by Short and Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee (CISNOC) president Luisa Peters.
Cook Islands Lawn Bowls team, media representative, and the athletes’ mental skills specialist also left with the delegation.
Short said excitement was building as Team Cook Islands come together ahead of the Games.
“Based on the performances of our swimmers, athletics and weightlifters at the Pacific Mini Games, we have seen that their preparations for the Commonwealth Games are progressing well,” he said.
“The Mini Games marked the beginning of their Commonwealth Games campaign, and since then all of our athletes have continued to build towards Glasgow through dedicated training and commitment.”
He said the Lawns Bowls, the only code to win a medal at the Commonwealth Games (bronze medal), have been putting in all the hard work to “hopefully repeat 2018 Gold Coast Games”.
“We are excited for two weeks of competition and to have the entire Team Cook Islands delegation together in Glasgow. It will be a proud moment for our athletes, coaches and officials as we represent the Cook Islands on the Commonwealth stage.”
CISNOC president Peters acknowledged the collective effort behind the team’s campaign and thanked those who have supported the athletes throughout their journey.
“As Team Cook Islands makes its way to Glasgow, I want to sincerely thank the families, supporters, coaches and everyone who has contributed to our athletes’ success, both on and off the field of play,” she said.
“Your encouragement, commitment and sacrifice have played an important role in helping our athletes reach this stage.
“We wish all of our athletes every success and look forward to seeing them deliver outstanding performances as they proudly represent the Cook Islands at the Commonwealth Games.”
Meanwhile, the Cook Islands swimming and athletics teams are already in Europe completing their final training camps before joining the rest of the delegation in Glasgow. The Cook Islands weightlifting team is putting the finishing touches on its Games campaign before travelling to Scotland.
Athletes and officials are travelling from various locations and routes, with the full Team Cook Islands delegation set to unite in Glasgow ahead of the July 23 opening ceremony.
The Cook Islands team includes weightlifter Matanoko McDonald, athletes Piritau Nga, Estelle Short, Max Teuruaa and Samasoni Hewitt, along with swimmers Lanihei Connolly, Mia Laban, Carter Makira and Jacob Story.
Rounding out the squad are lawn bowlers Emily Jim, Teokotai Jim, Vasie Poila, Royden Aperau, Jason Lindsay and Epii Poila…. PACNEWS
PAC – COMMONWEALTH GAMES: BBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Wales beat Tonga in last warm-up for Commonwealths
CARDIFF, 20 JULY 2026 (BBC SPORTS) — Wales completed preparations for the Commonwealth Games in style as they beat Tonga 65-52 in an uncapped warm-up game in Cardiff.
The Welsh Feathers started brightly, utilising Georgia Rowe’s height well in attack as the goal shooter was near faultless with her shooting.
She was ably assisted by goal attack Phillipa Yarranton and the pair scored 19 in the first quarter to give Wales a five-goal lead.
Tongan goal shooter Uneeq Palavi kept the pressure on Wales and the visitors cut the lead when making it 32-29 at half-time.
Wales rallied in the third quarter to increase their margin to seven goals and scored 17 goals in the final quarter to win 65-52
Just one place separates the sides in the world rankings with Wales seventh and Tonga eighth.
It was the last game for head coach Emily Handyside on home soil, as she will step down from her role at the conclusion of the Commonwealth Games.
Tonga face world number one Australia in their first pool game on Saturday while Wales take on Uganda, sixth best in the world, on Saturday.
The 12 players selected for Glasgow received their Commonwealth Games dresses from family members.
Wales head coach Emily Handyside said: “It was such a great game and gave us exactly the test we needed.
“The physicality reminded us of what international netball is. The girls really stepped up and put the things into practice that we wanted to.
“Lowri [Windsor] got her first experience of playing for the Feathers, so we’re delighted for the performance and the occasion. The team were fantastic on defence and attack.
“We’ve got so many great ball winners, Caris [Morgan], Vicky Booth, huge pressure at the back with Leah [Middleton], it was just a real team performance.
“They did a fantastic job of getting the ball down to our attackers who were slick and connected.”
Player of the match Phillipa Yarranton said: “It was a super physical game, and that’s international netball.
“For the girls that don’t get exposed to that very often, we get drips and drabs of it in the Super League season when we play the Aussies.
“Tonga are incredible competitors and it was great preparation.
“I think this is my third international player of the match award and although the game wasn’t capped, I wanted to leave everything on the court.
“You never know when you’ll get the opportunity to be on the court, you might not start the next game but I feel like I’ve got the nature and character that I want the bib ripped off of me.
“There’s no way I’m getting taken off that court, so I will just do or die.”
Wales’ pool fixtures
Saturday, 25 July (16:00 BST) – Wales v Uganda
Sunday, 26 July (09:00 BST) – Wales v Scotland
Tuesday, 28 July (16:00 BST) – Wales v Trinidad and Tobago
Wednesday, 29 July (19:00 BST) – New Zealand v Wales
Thursday, 30 July (19:00 BST) – Jamaica v Wales
Wales squad: Lowri Windsor, Alex Johnson, Poppy Tydeman, Vicky Booth, Nansi Kuti, Caris Morgan, Megan Pilkington, Zoe Matthewman, Phillipa Yarranton, Bethan Dyke, Leah Middleton, Georgia Rowe…. PACNEWS
PAC – BASKETBALL: SAMOA OBSERVER PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Samoa finishes fifth after beating Thailand at FIBA U18 Asia Cup
APIA, 20 JULY 2026 (SAMOA OBSERVER) — Samoa’s U18 women’s basketball team has finished fifth at the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup Division B after ending its campaign with an 82-73 victory over Thailand.
The win capped off a challenging week of international competition for the young Samoan women, who tested themselves against teams from across the region.
Samoa competed in Group B alongside Kazakhstan, Lebanon, and the Cook Islands before advancing to the quarterfinals, where it faced Indonesia.
The team’s quarterfinal match against Indonesia ended in defeat, but Samoa bounced back in the classification round to secure fifth place with its win over Thailand.
Guard Talaitupu Reid said the final match reflected their effort and determination throughout the tournament.
“They fought really hard. Everyone fought really hard for that,” Reid said.
She said the energy and cheering from her teammates, including those on the bench, helped push the team during the match.
“Even on the bench, my voice is kind of gone because we were cheering so loud,” she said.
Reid described the tournament as a challenging but rewarding experience as the team continued to come together throughout the week.
“I found it really challenging coming together with the girls. But it’s been such a big blessing to be here and to represent our country,” she said.
For Reid, representing Samoa at an international tournament was an opportunity she valued deeply.
“It means everything. Coming from Samoa, not everybody sees the courts that we’re training on, and the girls that don’t get this opportunity,” she said.
“So being able to be here and represent them, it’s just meant the world to me.”
Reid also encouraged young Samoan girls to give basketball a try and take up opportunities in the sport.
“I would say do it. Do it even if you’re scared and if you don’t know how it’s going to work out. Just put yourself out there, and you’re not going to regret it,” she said…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
‘I lied to our nutritionist’: Asafo Aumua sheds 10kg to get back in black
WELLINGTON, 20 JULY 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — Asafo Aumua not only had to battle a string of injuries to get back into the All Blacks but also the scales.
Thrust into the test against the Irish early after Codie Taylor succumbed to injury, Aumua delivered a quality 60 minutes at Eden Park, scoring one of six All Black tries.
It had been a long journey back to the jersey for Aumua, which fits a lot better now than it would have in January.
“I know I was eating quite a bit. I was a bit heavy heading into pre-season. But, happy to be back in decent, or good enough, nick to play the game.”
The dynamic hooker said he ballooned in weight in the off-season before trimming back down for Super Rugby.
“I lied to our nutritionist. I said I was 124kg, but I was actually 126kg. Now I’m 116kg. I was probably just eating too much.
“I was actually eating good food, but just a lot. Probably double the portions I should have been. But, I’m back to eating properly now.”
Aumua has been at his bulldozing best for the All Blacks in 2026, his damaging runs helping keep Ireland on the back foot following Taylor’s departure.
His impact illustrated the ruthless nature the side is trying to play with.
Despite being up 40-21 with the siren having sounded, Aumua said captain Ardie Savea’s message was to keep going.
“His message was ‘We’re not going to wind down the clock. We’re going to play.’ It’s been a constant throughout the series as well. Just trying to keep the ball moving, keep it alive. Try not to give the opposition a rest.”
That game plan has been an enjoyable one to execute, fellow front rower Ethan De Groot said.
“He’s [Dave Rennie] allowing us to back skill and having a crack so yeah, I’m enjoying that side of the game.”
De Groot joked that he had been looking to improve his on-field flair under the new regime.
“It’s funny because Barnsy [assistant coach Neil Barnes] actually gave me s*** for having no skills so I’ve been working hard on trying to prove him wrong with a bit of razzle.”
The powerhouse prop said the Irish brought plenty of intensity on Saturday night, despite the one-sided scoreline.
“It was very physical. Some big ball carriers there so it’s cool to get some shoulders on.”
De Groot said while it was a pleasing performance, there was still plenty of work to be done.
“It was definitely a step in the right direction. I still feel like there’s some room for improvement. I still feel like we left a few out there, to be honest. It wasn’t always pretty, but we got there.”
Having conceded early points against both France and Italy, it was the All Blacks that established dominance in the opening minutes at Eden Park.
“We had a big emphasis on our start – the last two weeks, teams have scored on us, so pretty happy we didn’t let them in early.”
Asked whether they would have to raise the standard ahead of the tour to South Africa, De Groot replied, “What do you think?”…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: OCEANIA RUGBY PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Oceania Rugby Growth Conference Returns to Fiji to Strengthen Rugby Across the Pacific
NADI, 20 JULY 2026 (OCEANIA RUGBY) — Oceania Rugby welcomed its growth Member Unions and rugby development leaders from across the Pacific to the Oceania Rugby Growth Conference 2026, held in Nadi, Fiji, from 16–17 July at the Tanoa International Hotel.
Building on the success of the inaugural conference in 2025, this year’s event reinforces the shared commitment of Oceania Rugby and World Rugby to equip emerging member unions with the knowledge, practical tools and regional connections needed to strengthen rugby development and support sustainable growth across Oceania.
Oceania Rugby General Manager Frank Puletua said the conference reflects the strength of the Pacific rugby community and the value of learning from one another.
“One of our greatest strengths as a region is our willingness to share knowledge and support each other. This conference gives our unions the opportunity to come together, learn from each other’s experiences and strengthen the way we develop rugby across Oceania.”
Fiji Rugby Union Acting Chief Operations Officer Talemo Waqa opened the conference, welcoming delegates to Fiji and acknowledging the importance of regional collaboration in strengthening rugby across the Pacific.
“The future of rugby is strongest when we work together, share knowledge and build each other’s capacity. For Fiji Rugby, the success of our game is inseparable from the success of rugby across the Pacific, and this conference provides an important opportunity for unions to share resources, experiences and innovative ideas that help lift the standard of rugby throughout our region.”
World Rugby Director of Participation Jason Lewis said regional collaboration remains central to creating lasting outcomes for the game.
“World Rugby is proud to support this conference because it brings our Member Unions together to align around shared priorities. By investing in our people and strengthening partnerships, we’re helping create lasting impact for rugby across Oceania.”
World Rugby Partnerships Manager – Oceania David Gibson provided an overview of World Rugby’s development priorities across the region, highlighting the importance of long-term investment, strong partnerships and sustainable growth in supporting member unions.
Throughout the opening day, delegates explored World Rugby development programmes, the Impact Beyond Pasifika initiative and Oceania Rugby’s regional development landscape. Sessions also focused on sport for development, marketing and commercial growth, communications, competition delivery, and practical approaches to rugby development from Tier 1 unions.
Representatives from Kiribati, Tuvalu, Nauru, American Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, the Cook Islands and Samoa shared insights from their respective rugby environments, showcasing innovative initiatives and exchanging ideas to strengthen rugby development across the Blue Pacific.
Discussions highlighted a shared commitment to strengthening age-grade participation, enhancing domestic and regional competition pathways, investing in the development of coaches, match officials and medical personnel, and continuing to build sustainable rugby programmes that meet the unique needs of Member Unions.
As the conference continues, delegates remain united by a shared vision of building stronger organisations, empowering local leaders and creating sustainable opportunities to support the long-term growth of rugby across the Pacific…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: OCEANIA RUGBY PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 20 Jul 2026
Oceania Rugby responds to PNGRU comments, confirms reinstatement pathway underway
PORT MORESBY, 20 JULY 2026 (OCEANIA RUGBY) — Oceania Rugby wishes to correct recent media reports concerning the membership status of the Papua New Guinea Rugby Union (PNGRU), which contained inaccuracies about the process being undertaken by the regional association.
PNGRU Acting President Vincent Karawa told ABC’s Pacific Beat this week that Oceania Rugby had gone quiet on PNGRU’s suspension, and suggested other forces may be delaying the Union’s reinstatement. Oceania Rugby disagrees with that account.
The Union was suspended in September 2024 over breaches of its tournament obligations and governance and financial non-compliance. Oceania Rugby commissioned an independent inquiry and established an Independent Judicial Panel to review PNGRU’s finances and governance in the months that followed.
World Rugby joined Oceania Rugby in November 2025 to help build an in-country solution. For the past eight months the two bodies have worked directly with local stakeholders in PNG on a structured pathway back to good standing. PNGRU has been part of that process throughout and has signed off on the roadmap now in place.
Frank Puletua, General Manager at Oceania Rugby, said: “We’ve been in regular contact with PNGRU and World Rugby throughout this process. There’s a roadmap agreed by all parties, and we want to see PNGRU back in good standing as soon as they meet what’s required of them.”
Reinstatement depends on PNGRU clearing a longstanding debt and meeting governance conditions set out in the roadmap. Some details of the process will stay confidential given the sensitivities for people and organisations in PNG…. PACNEWS
